Himalayan Health Exchange is organizing it’s 16th annual medical and cultural anthropological expedition to the Indian Himalayas in the summer of 2018. In order to enhance the learning experience of participants, this medical-anthropological expedition will also include socio-cultural and religious teachings of the Western Himalayas with daily yoga and meditations sessions. HHE will offer participants a practical approach to the study of India, Tibet and the Himalayan culture while attending a 6-day, preventive health camp. During their journey, team members will have the opportunity to investigate local history, religious beliefs and practices, modern human adaptations, regional effects of globalization, monastic life and local healthcare. In addition, through trekking and camping in remote areas, they will observe the interconnectedness of the magnificent natural environment with a daily local existence. This first-hand experience will be accompanied by daily yoga & meditation sessions and academic lectures. Participation is open to medical and Anthropology students of all levels.

Medical:
· Introduction to the health care needs of the local population
· Current state of Himalayan healthcare

Medical
Cont'd:· Role
of the national, state local government in shaping health
( AIDS, TB and Polio)· Indigenous
medical practices and customs of the Himalayan peoples
· Traditional Tibetan medicine (Amchi and Ayurvedic)
· Impact of modernization on various diseases
· Role of Himalayan Health Exchange and its healthcare delivery system

Field Expedition Objectives:
· To gain medical and cultural exposure.
·
To learn, develop and apply practical skills in non-traditional
settings.
·
To develop sensitivity to different religious beliefs and
rituals.
·
To introduce team members to cultures and lifestyles in remote
rural areas.
·
To develop awareness of different cultures by analyzing social,
economic and
health needs.